American Elm
Ulmus americana
Ulmaceae · broadleaf deciduous tree · native
Last updated
Data Coverage 4 of 6 dimensions
American elm is a native deciduous tree of eastern North America reaching 100 ft with a distinctive vase-like form. It has coarse green foliage, green flowers in March-April (precocious bloomers before leaves), and a broad, single-stem habit.
American elm is hardy in zones 2b-8b and thrives in full sun with adaptable soil (pH 5.5-8.0) and moderate moisture. Growth is fast with medium maintenance. It is notably tolerant of drought, black walnut, and urban conditions but is susceptible to Dutch elm disease and insect pests.
Quick Facts
Height
100 ft
Spread
82 ft
Growth Rate
Fast
Light
Full Sun
Soil
Adaptable
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
Zone Zones 2b–8b
Bloom Time
March to April
Origin
Newfoundland to Florida, west to the Rocky Mountains
Phenological Calendar
| Stage | Typical Window |
|---|---|
| Bud break BBCH 07 | Feb 15-Mar 15 |
| Bloom start BBCH 61 | Mar 1-Mar 31 |
| Bloom end / petal fall BBCH 69 | Apr 1-Apr 15 |
| Leaf emergence BBCH 11 | Mar 1-Apr 1 |
| Fruit/seed development BBCH 71 | Mar 15-May 31 |
| Fall color / leaf senescence BBCH 93 | Oct 1-Nov 15 |
| Dormancy BBCH 97 | Nov 15-Feb 28 |
Diseases (4)
Pests (10)
Aphidoidea Aphid Scolytinae Bark beetle Nymphalis antiopa Spiny elm caterpillar Gossyparia spuria European elm scale Fenusa ulmi Elm leafminer Xanthogaleruca luteola Elm leaf beetle Prionoxystus robiniae Carpenterworm Hyphantria cunea Fall webworm Lepidosaphes ulmi Oystershell scale Spiny elm caterpillar (mourning cloak butterfly)
Cultivars (2)
'Jefferson'
'Princeton'